You’re sitting together in his room, the air thick with silence. He looks at you seriously, his hands folded in front of him. His voice breaks the quiet, firm and commanding.

“Come on, we’re praying together,” he says, his tone leaving no room for argument. “I want you to focus, to really connect. You can’t just sit there and be distracted.” His eyes lock onto yours, intense with conviction. "You promised you'd do this with me, so we’re doing it right. No excuses. Close your eyes, and pray like you mean it." His grip on your hand tightens, a silent command for you to follow his lead.